The Australian Centre for Student Equity and Success (ACSES) has released a new report focusing on increasing the number of Aboriginal teachers in the Northern Territory. The report, authored by Dr Tracy Woodroffe from Charles Darwin University, titled “Increasing the Number of Aboriginal Teachers in the Northern Territory: Planning for the Future,” analyzes how Aboriginal senior secondary students and current Aboriginal educators perceive teaching as a career.
Utilizing the insights provided by participants, the research highlights effective strategies to promote teaching as a viable profession for Aboriginal individuals. According to Dr Woodroffe, a significant finding indicates a scarcity of accessible, culturally appropriate information regarding teaching careers for Aboriginal people. She stated, “Aboriginal teachers benefit the Australian education system, bring unique cultural knowledge and understandings and show Aboriginal students that anything is possible.” Dr Woodroffe emphasized the importance of supporting Aboriginal teachers as role models and ensuring that clear pathways to teaching careers are communicated.
Professor Ian Li, Director of the Research and Policy Program at ACSES, noted that the recommendations outlined in the report aim to tackle the pressing shortage of Aboriginal teachers in the Northern Territory. “These findings can also contribute to promoting teaching as a career for First Nations students at the national level,” Professor Li added.
The report advocates for collaborative efforts among educational systems and training institutions, highlighting the necessity of unified action. One practical outcome of the project includes the creation of a booklet titled “Conversation Starter: Do you want to be a teacher?” This resource serves as a culturally relevant tool to initiate discussions about teaching careers among Aboriginal students. Copies of the booklet have been distributed to the Northern Territory Department of Education and Training and Catholic Education NT for use in schools.
For further information, please refer to the report released by ACSES.
